Maui's Winery - Tedeschi Vineyards

Ulupalakua, Maui

It is a little known fact that the largest winery in the whole state of Hawaii is located on Maui. A journey to Maui's Winery is rewarding for its beauty scenery and cool climate alone, but also provides an opportunity to tour the historic grounds and sample wines from the source. Driving up the Haleakala Highway to Ulupalakua area makes for the perfect island road trip no matter where you are staying on island. Highlights: A great contrast to the resorts and beaches, at 2000 ft. elevation the air is cooler and the views are huge. Take a drive to the countryside where you may feel like you are in Ireland, or New Zealand. This area is strikingly beautiful and hosts a winery with tasting room and free tour of its facilities. Location: Ulupalakua, MauiHours: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tasting Room dailyFree Tours: 10:30 a.m., 1:30 & 2:30 p.m. dailyReservations: none needed Cost: Free tours, free tastings The Ulupalakua Ranch is renowned in Maui's folklore, this community has hosted Hawaiian Monarchs and V.I.P.'s from back in the late 1800's when the property was called "Rose Ranch". A history of ranching, and agriculture has been fostered in this area for over 150 years, as the ranch changed ownership the uses for the land have diversified. Ranching still occurs on a majority of the 58,000 acres, but through a partnership with vintner Emil Tedeschi the ranch owners the Erdmann Family established vineyards in 1974. There is no attempt to be "Napa" or any similarly popular wine region tour, this is Hawaiian style and steeped in history. The Maui's wines are unique, as you would expect from near-tropical island. There are some fruits in the mix, like the house pineapple wine that was developed as an experiment while awaiting the maturity of the planted grapes. It became a favorite and has become one of the Vineyards signature wines. The Tasting Room also has estate wines available exclusively through their store. A Maui rose, or Lokealani blend is one of the new favorites. Take the free tour offered 3 times daily and hear of some of the history while walking the beautifully manicured grounds, and visiting the production areas behind the scenes. The tour ends by sampling some of the local wine stocks, with explanations from the helpful staff. A small museum room, adjacent the Tasting Room, has details on the walls of the historic transformation of Ulapalakua Ranch over the last century. It also tells of the "Merrie Monarch's" visit back in the 1874, and the ceremonial festivities and party that ensued. The Tasting Room is actually the house constructed for the King's visit and he resided within. Imagine as you sample wines from the 18-foot mango wood bar, that you are having a drink in the King's House. The offering of wines includes sparkling, pineapple, grape and a rich raspberry dessert wine. Some great art…